Run, Little Chaski!

by Mariana Llanos
illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson

‘‘An appealing introduction to an important culture largely overlooked in children’s literature in the United States’’ –Kirkus

In this tale set in the ancient Inka (sometimes spelled Inca) empire, Little Chaski has a big job: he is the Inka King’s newest royal messenger. On his first day delivering messages he stops to help several creatures in need along the way, causing him to nearly miss his sunset deadline. But the kindness he bestowed on these animals winds up helping him in surprising ways. Descriptive language and bold illustrations give readers insight into Little Chaski’s nervousness and excitement as he runs the Inka Trail, working earnestly to fulfill the responsibilities of his new role.

Preschool – 2 grade
Hardcover | 32 pages | 3-7 years old | Barefoot Books | 2021

Mariana Llanos is a Peruvian-born writer of children’s literature. In 2017, she was selected as the Best Latino Artist by the Hispanic Arts Council of Oklahoma, where she resides. Her first picture book for Barefoot Books, Run, Little Chaski!, was chosen for the 2022 Oklahoma Book Award and as a 2022 Library of Congress Great Reads Selection. When she’s not writing, she enjoys baking, spending time with her children, and visiting schools to ignite the love for reading.